A Fresh Take on the Death in Paradise Franchise
"Return to Paradise" is not just another crime series—it’s Australia’s thrilling contribution to the globally loved Death in Paradise universe. Premiering on Sunday, 8 September, at 7:30 pm on ABC TV and ABC iview, this six-part series brings a fresh, uniquely Australian perspective to the classic murder mystery format.
Filmed across Sydney and the stunning Illawarra coastal region, Return to Paradise blends the charm of Death in Paradise with a distinctly Australian atmosphere. While staying true to the beloved format, this spin-off adds a new twist to the classic whodunit formula that fans of the original series will love.
Meet DI Mackenzie Clarke: The Reluctant Detective
At the heart of Return to Paradise is DI Mackenzie Clarke, played by Anna Samson. A former London-based detective, Mackenzie is known for her sharp mind and relentless pursuit of justice. She built a reputation for solving impossible cases under her old boss, Detective Inspector Jack Mooney. However, Mackenzie’s career is derailed when a courtroom scandal forces her to flee London in disgrace, accused of falsifying evidence.
With no prospects in England, Mackenzie returns to her hometown of Dolphin Cove, a tropical paradise that holds nothing but bad memories for her. Despite her best efforts to lie low, the small town’s police department, stuck in the middle of a hiring freeze, has no choice but to offer her a position. Now, Mackenzie finds herself investigating murders in the place she hoped she’d never see again.
Dolphin Cove: A Picturesque Nightmare
Set on the beautiful New South Wales coast, Dolphin Cove is Mackenzie’s worst nightmare. In a town where everybody knows everyone else’s business, she’s greeted with open disdain. Mackenzie is far from welcome, especially after she famously left her fiancé, Glenn, standing at the altar six years ago. Now back in town, she faces hostility from the locals, making her job as a detective even more challenging.
The Team at Dolphin Cove Police Station
Mackenzie’s return to Dolphin Cove isn’t just awkward because of her past. Her new team at the police station isn’t exactly thrilled to have her there. At the forefront is Detective Senior Constable Colin Cartwright, a British migrant with aspirations for Mackenzie’s job. Then there’s Constable Felix Wilkinson, a by-the-book officer who clashes with Mackenzie’s unconventional methods.
To make matters worse, Mackenzie’s former mentor, Sergeant Philomena Strong, is now her boss—and she also happens to be Glenn’s mother. Their strained relationship only adds to the tension. But Mackenzie’s team also includes some quirky allies, like Reggie Rocco, her eccentric former schoolteacher and now a police volunteer.
Mackenzie’s Investigation Style: The Devil’s in the Details
Mackenzie’s reputation as a detective stems from her uncanny ability to notice the smallest, oddest details in any case. Whether it’s a misplaced pie or an odd sock, she fixates on the things that others overlook. This obsessive focus allows her to shift the perspective on the crime until she gets the full picture. It’s this skill that will help her solve the murders plaguing Dolphin Cove, despite the challenges she faces.
The Complicated Relationship Between Mackenzie and Glenn
As if solving murders in a hostile environment wasn’t enough, Mackenzie must also navigate the awkward relationship with her ex-fiancé, Glenn, who now works as the local forensic pathologist. Glenn has moved on and is dating Daisy Dixon, the town’s sweetheart. Even Mackenzie finds it hard to dislike Daisy, a stark contrast to the bitter feelings she holds for her hometown.
Mackenzie’s history with Glenn complicates their working relationship, but as the series progresses, there may be a chance for closure—or something more.
Why Return to Paradise Is More Than Just a Spin-off
What sets Return to Paradise apart is its deep exploration of Mackenzie’s personal journey, interwoven with the crime-solving elements that fans of Death in Paradise know and love. It’s not just about solving the mystery of who committed the crime—it’s also about Mackenzie’s path to redemption, both professionally and personally.
With every case she solves, Mackenzie takes one step closer to repairing her tarnished reputation and earning the trust of the people of Dolphin Cove. Her journey is as much about solving mysteries as it is about finding her place in a town she’s grown to hate.
Conclusion: A Must-Watch for Fans of Death in Paradise
If you’re a fan of Death in Paradise, then Return to Paradise is a must-watch. With its compelling lead character, stunning coastal backdrop, and intriguing whodunit plots, the series promises to deliver everything fans love about the original—with an exciting Australian twist.
FAQ
What is Return to Paradise about?
Return to Paradise follows DI Mackenzie Clarke as she returns to her hometown of Dolphin Cove in Australia, where she must solve murder cases while dealing with her complicated past.
How does Return to Paradise connect to Death in Paradise?
The show is a spin-off of the Death in Paradise franchise, featuring a new lead character, DI Mackenzie Clarke, who has ties to the original series through her work in London under DI Jack Mooney.
Where was Return to Paradise filmed?
The series was filmed in various locations across Sydney and the Illawarra coastal region of New South Wales, Australia.
When does Return to Paradise premiere?
The show premieres on Sunday, 8 September, at 7:30 pm on ABC TV and ABC iview.
Who stars in Return to Paradise?
Anna Samson stars as DI Mackenzie Clarke, with supporting roles from a talented cast including Constable Felix Wilkinson and forensic pathologist Glenn.
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